Covering Assembly for a Helmet

ABSTRACT

A covering assembly comprises a cover portion comprising an elastic material having an inner surface and an outer surface. The cover portion is configured to be operable to stretch over at least a portion of a helmet. At least one cover fastener is joined to the inner surface. The cover fastener is configured to be operable to removably join the cover portion to the helmet. At least one extension fastener is joined to the outer surface. The extension fastener is configured to be operable to removably join at least one extension portion to the outer surface in which the extension portion visibly protrudes from the cover portion.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present Utility patent application claims priority benefit of the U.S. provisional application for patent Ser. No. 61/615,192, entitled “A Cover for a Helmet”, filed on 23 Mar. 2012 under 35 U.S.C. 119(e). The contents of this related provisional application are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes to the extent that such subject matter is not inconsistent herewith or limiting hereof.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER LISTING APPENDIX

Not applicable.

COPYRIGHT NOTICE

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or patent disclosure as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office, patent file or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

One or more embodiments of the invention generally relate to covers. More particularly, the invention relates to helmet covers with attached three dimensional characters and/or objects.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The following background information may present examples of specific aspects of the prior art (e.g., without limitation, approaches, facts, or common wisdom) that, while expected to be helpful to further educate the reader as to additional aspects of the prior art, is not to be construed as limiting the present invention, or any embodiments thereof, to anything stated or implied therein or inferred thereupon.

The following is an example of a specific aspect in the prior art that, while expected to be helpful to further educate the reader as to additional aspects of the prior art, is not to be construed as limiting the present invention, or any embodiments thereof, to anything stated or implied therein or inferred thereupon. By way of educational background, another aspect of the prior art generally useful to be aware of is that a helmet is a form of protective gear worn on the head to protect from injuries. Helmets attempt to protect the user's head by absorbing mechanical energy and protecting against penetration. There are various types and styles of helmets for different activities.

Typically, a helmet is for protection; however, helmets may be decorated to provide aesthetics. Painting on the helmet may provide decorative graphics on the helmet.

Typically, a character is a person, animal, or fictional creature in a narrative work of art. The character may provide a reprieve from daily activities by entertaining. The character may also be utilized for commercial embodiments, associating with a product or service.

In view of the foregoing, it is clear that these traditional techniques are not perfect and leave room for more optimal approaches.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention is illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings and in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements and in which:

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate side views of an exemplary cover assembly joined with an exemplary protection device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates a detailed perspective view of an exemplary cover fastener, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate detailed perspective views of an exemplary at least one support base joined with an exemplary protection device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary protection device joined with an exemplary strap portion and an exemplary mesh guard, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 5 illustrates a frontal view of an exemplary cover portion positioned on an exemplary protection device, and joined with an exemplary at least one extension portion.

Unless otherwise indicated illustrations in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS

The present invention is best understood by reference to the detailed figures and description set forth herein.

Embodiments of the invention are discussed below with reference to the Figures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these figures is for explanatory purposes as the invention extends beyond these limited embodiments. For example, it should be appreciated that those skilled in the art will, in light of the teachings of the present invention, recognize a multiplicity of alternate and suitable approaches, depending upon the needs of the particular application, to implement the functionality of any given detail described herein, beyond the particular implementation choices in the following embodiments described and shown. That is, there are numerous modifications and variations of the invention that are too numerous to be listed but that all fit within the scope of the invention. Also, singular words should be read as plural and vice versa and masculine as feminine and vice versa, where appropriate, and alternative embodiments do not necessarily imply that the two are mutually exclusive.

It is to be further understood that the present invention is not limited to the particular methodology, compounds, materials, manufacturing techniques, uses, and applications, described herein, as these may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include the plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, a reference to “an element” is a reference to one or more elements and includes equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art. Similarly, for another example, a reference to “a step” or “a means” is a reference to one or more steps or means and may include sub-steps and subservient means. All conjunctions used are to be understood in the most inclusive sense possible. Thus, the word “or” should be understood as having the definition of a logical “or” rather than that of a logical “exclusive or” unless the context clearly necessitates otherwise. Structures described herein are to be understood also to refer to functional equivalents of such structures. Language that may be construed to express approximation should be so understood unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Preferred methods, techniques, devices, and materials are described, although any methods, techniques, devices, or materials similar or equivalent to those described herein may be used in the practice or testing of the present invention. Structures described herein are to be understood also to refer to functional equivalents of such structures. The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

From reading the present disclosure, other variations and modifications will be apparent to persons skilled in the art. Such variations and modifications may involve equivalent and other features which are already known in the art, and which may be used instead of or in addition to features already described herein.

Although Claims have been formulated in this application to particular combinations of features, it should be understood that the scope of the disclosure of the present invention also includes any novel feature or any novel combination of features disclosed herein either explicitly or implicitly or any generalization thereof, whether or not it relates to the same invention as presently claimed in any Claim and whether or not it mitigates any or all of the same technical problems as does the present invention.

Features which are described in the context of separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination. The Applicants hereby give notice that new Claims may be formulated to such features and/or combinations of such features during the prosecution of the present application or of any further application derived therefrom.

References to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “example embodiment,” “various embodiments,” etc., may indicate that the embodiment(s) of the invention so described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not every embodiment necessarily includes the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Further, repeated use of the phrase “in one embodiment,” or “in an exemplary embodiment,” do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, although they may.

Headings provided herein are for convenience and are not to be taken as limiting the disclosure in any way.

The enumerated listing of items does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually exclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise.

The terms “a”, “an” and “the” mean “one or more”, unless expressly specified otherwise.

Devices that are in communication with each other need not be in continuous communication with each other, unless expressly specified otherwise. In addition, devices that are in communication with each other may communicate directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries.

A description of an embodiment with several components in communication with each other does not imply that all such components are required. On the contrary a variety of optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of possible embodiments of the present invention.

As is well known to those skilled in the art many careful considerations and compromises typically must be made when designing for the optimal manufacture of a commercial implementation any system, and in particular, the embodiments of the present invention. A commercial implementation in accordance with the spirit and teachings of the present invention may configured according to the needs of the particular application, whereby any aspect(s), feature(s), function(s), result(s), component(s), approach(es), or step(s) of the teachings related to any described embodiment of the present invention may be suitably omitted, included, adapted, mixed and matched, or improved and/or optimized by those skilled in the art, using their average skills and known techniques, to achieve the desired implementation that addresses the needs of the particular application.

The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

There are various types of cover assemblies that may be provided by preferred embodiments of the present invention. In one embodiment of the present invention, the cover assembly may serve as a base for joining objects to a protection device. The cover assembly may include a cover portion configured to easily join with a protection device, including, without limitation a helmet. The cover portion may include an inner surface that forms a secure attachment with the protection device by at least partially covering and conforming to a contour of the protection device. In some embodiments, the cover portion may include an elastic material that flexibly and removably secures the inner surface to the protection device. The inner surface may further utilize at least one cover fastener and/or a base support portion to securely join with the protection device. In some embodiments, at least one extension portion may join with an outer surface of the cover portion through an extension fastener. The at least one extension portion may include an animated character having the dimensions of depth as well as width and height. In this manner, the extension portion may provide an animated object, signage, texture, and/or character that visibly protrudes from the cover portion while securely positioning on the protection device. In some practical embodiment, substance could be applied by brush if it is liquid applicable material, or adhered by sewing, gluing, and so forth if a solid/fabric material.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the cover assembly may provide a slip-on cover portion disposed to securely join with a protection device, and configured to support at least one extension portion. The cover portion may serve as a base configured to engage and join with an eclectic assortment of protection devices, and provide a surface for joining with at least one extension portion. By way of example not limitation other characters include a clown, Panda, Cookie Monster, Elmo, Oscar the Grouch, (Sesame Street characters), Shrek, Monsters' Inc characters (Dream works characters), Pixar Characters, Lucas Films characters, Marvel characters Disney characters, etc. . . . . Characters can also include more scary characters but are not limited to like Preditor, Mummy, Freddy Kruger, Aliens, Wolfman, Wolf, Zombies, Pinhead, Chucky, etc. . . . Characters can also include but are not limited to, Mascots for sports teams, Private/public company mascots. Also Logos for companies (private and public) can be included as a means for advertisments on the helmet slip on cover. 3-D Color schemes included to match but not limited to companies, sports teams, other organizations of the type. Objects to be attached, include but not limited to, eye(s), eyebrow(s), eye lash(es), ear(s), nose(s), horn(s), fur(s), tail(s), arm(s), hand(s), foot/feet, Finger(s), Cheek(s), hair (include but not limited to dreadlocks, ponytails, spike, etc. . . . ), In some embodiments, the cover portion may at least partially engage the protection device by conforming to, and pressing against the contour of the protection device. The cover portion may include, without limitation, a spandex material, a plurality of rubber bands, a synthetic fiber, neoprene, nylon, a polymer, plastic, rubber, and metal materials. Those skilled in the art, in light of the present teachings, will recognize that the protection device may include a helmet with a visor. The visor may pivotally open and close for facilitating visibility. The cover portion may at least partially engage at least a perimeter area of the visor, thereby hindering the ability of the visor to fully close. Consequently, the cover portion may be configured to allow the visor to close by comprising a sufficiently thin material and/or utilizing three or less bands to secure the cover portion to the protection device, whereby additional elastic bands may provide excessive obstacles to closing the visor properly.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the cover portion may include an inner surface for at least partially engaging the protection device, wherein pulling the cover portion in a first direction urges the cover portion downwardly into engagement with the protection device. The engagement may create a releasably tight attachment between the cover portion and the protection device. For example, without limitation, the cover portion may comprise sufficient elasticity to slip on an eclectic assortment of variously shaped and dimensioned helmets. In some embodiments, a substance may position between the inner surface and the protection device to enhance the attachment. Suitable substances may include, without limitation, glue, adhesive, magnets, grips, spandex, a synthetic fiber, neoprene, nylon, a polymer, plastic, rubber, metal, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, at least one cover fastener may be configured to help secure the inner surface to the protection device. The at least one cover fastener may be configured to removably join the inner surface to the protection device. The at least one cover fastener may include a first end that joins with the protection device, and a second end that joins with the cover portion. For example, without limitation, a top, frontal area of a full faced motorcycle helmet may include a hook and loop fastener that joins with the same on the inner surface of the cover portion to help restrict the protection device from sliding towards a rear area. In yet another example, without limitation, an elastic band may encircle an inner area of a half-dome helmet to help restrict movement and undesired repositioning of the helmet, whereby the elastic band serves as the cover fastener. Suitable cover fasteners may include, without limitation, hook and loop fasteners, strings, elastic bands, zippers, ropes, magnets, rods, screws, nails, bolts, clips, buttons, threads, adhesives, and combinations thereof.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a fastener support portion may be configured to secure the at least one cover fastener to the outer surface and/or to the protection device. In one embodiment, the fastener support portion may include a claw-shaped clamp that extends from the cover assembly in proximity to the visor, and presses the at least one cover fastener, such as a hook and loop fastener, against the protection device. In this manner, the area of the cover portion that may experience high wind turbulence may include additional fastening capacity. In some embodiments, a strap portion may be configured to be operable to extend from the cover portion and secure a chin to the protection device. The strap portion may include a mesh guard to provide cushion, and prevent external elements from entering the protection device, for example, without limitation, water, dust, wind, and debris. The mesh guard may either be permanently fixed to the protection device, or temporarily adhered by a fastener, including, without limitation, hook and loop fasteners, buttons, and clips. It is proposed that a possible theory of operation to explain how a mesh chin guard prevents debris and wind from getting into the helmet may, without limitation, potentially be that there is wind turbulence that is created with an increase in wind speed below the chin of the rider if using a full-faced, Motorcross, or any other helmet that covers around the chin. As turbulence is increased the wind will push anything that is sucked into it, up into the inside of the helmet. In some practical embodiments, the mesh guard may be optimally located in front of the bottom of the jaw of the user. By doing so anything larger than the holes in the mesh will not likely pass and obstruct the user's vision, breathing, attention, and so forth

In one embodiment of the present invention, the cover portion may include at least one support base disposed to join between the inner surface and the protection device, in proximity to a frontal area of the protection device. However, in other embodiments, the at least one support base may join with the outer surface, serving to press the cover portion against the protection device, and also to join with the at least one extension portion. The support base may be operable to orient the cover portion in a desired position on the protection device. The support base may be at least partially flexible. However, in other embodiments, the support base may be rigid. Suitable materials for fabricating the support base may include, without limitation, spandex, polystyrene, polystyrene foam, polyethylene, a synthetic fiber, neoprene, nylon, a polymer, plastic, rubber, metal, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the at least one support base may include at least one base fastener. Suitable mechanisms for joining the at least one base fastener to the at least one support base may include, without limitation, a hook and loop material, a band, an elastic band, a zipper, a rope, a rod, a screw, a nail, a bolt, a clip, a button, thread, an adhesive, and combinations thereof. Suitable materials for the at least one base fastener may include, without limitation, spandex, polystyrene, polystyrene foam, polyethylene, a synthetic fiber, neoprene, nylon, lycra, a polymer, plastic, rubber, metal, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the at least one base fastener may also include a shape. Suitable shapes for the at least one base fastener may include, without limitation, a cone, a partial cone, a pyramid, a sphere, a partial sphere, a half sphere, a cube, a cylinder, ellipse, and a tube.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the cover assembly may include at least one extension portion that joins with an outer surface of the cover portion. Each extension portion may be interchangeable and detachable. The at least one extension portion may utilize at least one extension fastener to secure to the outer surface. The at least one extension portion may include an animated character having the dimensions of depth as well as width and height. In this manner, the extension portion may provide an animated object, signage, texture, and/or character that visibly protrudes from the cover portion while securely positioning on the protection device. For example, without limitation, a pair of eyes may fasten to the outer surface with a hook and loop fastener, and a pair of horns may fasten to the outer surface with elastic bands that encircle the protection device. In some practical embodiment, the surface can be used as, but not limited to, a protective barrier, aesthetic addition (for looks), cover helmet imperfections/damage, and combinations thereof. And, in many practical embodiment the surface can be an all Velcro surface. In fact if the pieces are properly cut and adhered to a support base that is contractable, than the velcro outer shell, which you can attach many objects, can contract onto the size of the protective shell.

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate side views of an exemplary cover assembly joined with an exemplary protection device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present invention, a cover assembly 100 may serve as a base for joining objects to a protection device. The cover assembly may provide a cover portion 102 disposed to securely join with a protection device 104, and configured to support at least one extension portion. The protection device may include, without limitation, a helmet. Suitable helmets may include, without limitation, a motorcycle helmet, a bicycle helmet, a batting helmet, a cricket helmet, a football helmet, a goalie helmet, a hockey helmet, a welding helmet, a riot helmet, a pilot helmet, a hardhat, and combinations thereof. Those skilled in the art, in light of the present teachings, will recognize that a helmet may be utilized in activities where safety or aesthetics may be efficacious for enhancing the function of the helmet. Joining detachable three dimensional characters and/or objects to the helmet may provide this capability.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the cover portion may serve as a base configured to engage and join with an eclectic assortment of protection devices, and provide a surface for joining with at least one extension portion. In some embodiments, the cover portion may at least partially engage the protection device by conforming to, and pressing against the contour of the protection device. The cover portion may include, without limitation, a spandex material, a plurality of rubber bands, a synthetic fiber, neoprene, nylon, a polymer, plastic, rubber, and metal materials. However, any material that serves as a base and securely joins with characters and/or objects may be utilized as a cover portion. In some embodiments, the cover portion may include a thickness. A suitable range for the thickness may include, without limitation, the density of spandex filaments ranging from about 1.15 to 1.32 g/cc. In one alternative embodiment, the cover portion may be sufficiently thick to provide a cushion against a blow, thereby serving multiple functions. By way of example not limitation other materials include but are not limited to Cotton, acrylic, or any other type of material that can be contrude as fabric. In some alternate embodiments the cover portion mitigates scratching of the helmet and helps keep the helmet clean. In some alternate embodiments the cover portion may be easily cleaned in a washing machine. Those skilled in the art, in light of the present teachings, will recognize that the protection device may include a helmet with a visor 115. The visor may pivotally open and close for facilitating visibility. The cover portion may at least partially engage at least a perimeter area of the visor, thereby hindering the ability of the visor to fully close. Consequently, the cover portion may be configured to allow the visor to close by comprising a sufficiently thin material and/or utilizing three or less bands to secure the cover portion to the protection device, whereby additional elastic bands may provide excessive obstacles to closing the visor properly.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the cover portion may include an inner surface 135 for at least partially engaging the protection device, wherein pulling the cover portion in a first direction urges the cover portion downwardly into engagement with the protection device. The engagement may create a releasably tight attachment between the cover portion and the protection device. For example, without limitation, the cover portion may comprise sufficient elasticity to slip on an eclectic assortment of variously shaped and dimensioned helmets. In some embodiments, a substance may position between the inner surface and the protection device to enhance the attachment. Suitable substances may include, without limitation, glue, adhesive, magnets, grips, spandex, a synthetic fiber, neoprene, nylon, a polymer, plastic, rubber, metal, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, at least one cover fastener 125 may be configured to help secure the inner surface to the protection device. The at least one cover fastener may be configured to removably join the inner surface to the protection device. The at least one cover fastener may include a first end 140 that joins with the protection device, and a second end 145 that joins with the cover portion. Suitable cover fasteners may include, without limitation, hook and loop fasteners, strings, elastic bands, zippers, ropes, magnets, rods, screws, nails, bolts, clips, buttons, threads, adhesives, and combinations thereof.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a fastener support portion 155 may be configured to secure the at least one cover fastener to the outer surface and/or to the protection device. In one embodiment, the fastener support portion may include a claw-shaped clamp that extends from the cover assembly in proximity to the visor, and presses the at least one cover fastener, such as a hook and loop fastener, against the protection device. In this manner, the area of the cover portion that may experience high wind turbulence may include additional fastening capacity. In some embodiments, a strap portion 150 may be configured to be operable to extend from the cover portion and secure a chin to the protection device. The strap portion may include a mesh guard 160 to provide cushion, and prevent external elements from entering the protection device, for example, without limitation, water, dust, wind, and debris. The mesh guard may either be permanently fixed to the protection device, or temporarily adhered by a fastener, including, without limitation, hook and loop fasteners, buttons, and clips.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the cover assembly may include at least one extension portion 170 that joins with an outer surface 130 of the cover portion. The at least one extension portion may utilize at least one extension fastener to detachably join with the outer surface. Each extension portion may be interchangeable and detachable. In some embodiments, the at least one extension portion may include an animated character having the dimensions of depth as well as width and height. In this manner, the extension portion may provide an animated object, signage, texture, and/or character that visibly protrudes from the cover portion while securely positioning on the protection device. For example, without limitation, a pair of eyes may fasten to the outer surface with a hook and loop fastener, and a pair of horns may fasten to the outer surface with elastic bands that encircle the protection device. Those skilled in the art, in light of the present teachings, will recognize that the at least one extension portion may create a synergy with the shape of the protection device to enhance the aesthetics and functionality of the cover assembly. For example, without limitation, the visor may resemble a mouth when a pair of cloth eyes is attached above the visor.

FIG. 2 illustrates a detailed perspective view of an exemplary cover fastener, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present invention, the cover fastener may comprise a variety of fastening mechanisms configured to operate on different areas of the protection device. For example, without limitation, a top, frontal area of a full faced motorcycle helmet may include a hook and loop fastener that joins with the same on the inner surface of the cover portion to help restrict the protection device from sliding towards a rear area. In yet another example, without limitation, an elastic band may encircle an inner area of a half-dome helmet to help restrict movement and undesired repositioning of the helmet, whereby the elastic band serves as the cover fastener. Those skilled in the art, in light of the present teachings, will recognize that a helmet may include a dome shape with few ridges or seams for fastening the extension portions. The visor and the peripheral edges of the helmet may provide surfaces for the cover fastener to join with the first end, and the second end to fasten the at least one extension portion.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate detailed perspective views of an exemplary at least one support base joined with an exemplary protection device, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present invention, the cover portion may include at least one support base 302 disposed to join between the inner surface and the protection device, in proximity to a frontal area of the protection device. In some practical embodiment, the support base may be attached to the spandex, but not limited to, underneath the, but not limited to, eye(s), eyebrow(s), eye lash(es), ear(s), nose(s), horn(s), fur(s), tail(s), arm(s), hand(s), foot/feet, Finger(s), Cheek(s), hair (include but not limited to dreadlocks, ponytails, spike, etc. . . . ). Support base isn't always necessary, 3 dimensional structures can be attached using any of the previously mentioned attachable mediums (including but not limited to hook and loop fasteners, strings, elastic bands, zippers, ropes, magnets, rods, screws, nails, bolts, clips, buttons, threads, adhesives, and combinations thereof). However, in other embodiments, the at least one support base may join with the outer surface, serving to press the cover portion against the protection device, and also to join with the at least one extension portion. The support base may be operable to orient the cover portion in a desired position on the protection device. The support base may be at least partially flexible to enable the support base to move or sway to create an animation. However, in other embodiments, the support base may be rigid. Suitable materials for fabricating the support base may include, without limitation, spandex, polystyrene, polystyrene foam, polyethylene, a synthetic fiber, neoprene, nylon, a polymer, plastic, rubber, metal, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the at least one support base may include at least one base fastener 304 for joining at least one extension portion. The flexibility of the support base serves to animate an attached extension portion. Suitable mechanisms for joining the at least one base fastener to the at least one support base may include, without limitation, a hook and loop material, a band, an elastic band, a zipper, a rope, a rod, a screw, a nail, a bolt, a clip, a button, thread, an adhesive, and combinations thereof. Suitable materials for the at least one base fastener may include, without limitation, spandex, polystyrene, polystyrene foam, polyethylene, a synthetic fiber, neoprene, nylon, a polymer, plastic, rubber, metal, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the at least one base fastener may be sized, shaped, and dimensioned to resemble an eye, and provide structural integrity to the cover assembly by joining with the at least one support base. In one embodiment, two base fasteners join with one support base. Suitable shapes for the at least one base fastener may include, without limitation, a cone, a partial cone, a pyramid, a sphere, a partial sphere, a half sphere, a cube, a cylinder, ellipse, and a tube.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a substance 306 may position between the at least one support base to the inner surface to enhance the attachment. In one alternative embodiment, the substance may include a non-slip composition that at least partially covers the inner surface to enhance the attachment with the protection device. Suitable substances may include, without limitation, glue, adhesive, magnets, grips, spandex, a synthetic fiber, neoprene, nylon, a polymer, plastic, rubber, metal, and combinations thereof.

FIG. 4 illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary protection device joined with an exemplary strap portion and an exemplary mesh guard, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. In the present invention, a strap portion may be configured to be operable to extend from the cover portion and secure a chin to the protection device. The strap portion may include an elastic band disposed to encircle around the bottom of the protection device for retaining the slip-on cover base stationary on the protection device. In some embodiments, a mesh guard may provide cushion and prevent external elements from entering the protection device, for example, without limitation, water, dust, wind, and debris rushing into the protection device from wind turbulence. The mesh guard may either be permanently fixed to the protection device, or temporarily adhered by a fastener, including, without limitation, hook and loop fasteners, buttons, and clips. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize, in light of the teachings of the present invention, that the protection device, and/or strap portion and/or the mesh guard of the present embodiment may be included, alone or practical combination, in any suitable design, depending upon the needs of the particular application.

FIG. 5 illustrates a frontal view of an exemplary cover portion positioned on an exemplary protection device, and joined with an exemplary at least one extension portion. In the present invention, the at least one extension portion may utilize at least one extension fastener 502 to secure to the outer surface. The at least one extension portion may include an animated character having the dimensions of depth as well as width and height. In this manner, the extension portion may provide an animated object, signage, texture, and/or character that visibly protrudes from the cover portion while securely positioning on the protection device. In one embodiment, the at least one extension portion may include a three dimensional object that appears to pop out of the helmet. The at least one extension portion may include, without limitation, a character, facial features, eyes, nose, teeth, horns, signage, and block letters/numerals. Those skilled in the art, in light of the present teachings, will recognize that a user riding with a motorcycle helmet is more likely to be seen with a moving three dimensional extension portion, than a paint job. Further, the response of motorists that view a character with personality on the helmet, rather than a plain helmet may give the user a personality that humanizes that person; thus creating a safer driving experience on the roadway.

In one embodiment of the present invention, myriad materials and design concepts may be utilized to form the at least one extension portion. For example, without limitation, the at least one extension portion may utilize a licra/nylon material combination, such as spandex. The spandex may provide a durable material that retains integrity when sewn or stapled through. The spandex may provide a glove like fit efficacious for conforming to a helmet. The substance may include a neoprene like substance that positions between buttons and the helmet to minimize damage and/or scratching to the helmet. Elastic bands may fit under the visor to retain the spandex in place, especially during wind turbulence. The elastic bands may serve as proper connector to the cover portion due to the strength and thinness for positioning under the visor without obstructing closing of the visor. An elastic band or rope may retain the other areas of the helmet to the cover portion. In this manner, tension and contact may be released. A support base may cradle a Styrofoam extension portion, such as an eye. The support base may adhere the Styrofoam to the support cradle. A painted piece of circular wood to the Styrofoam may form the illusion of an eye, creating the pupil of the eye.

The support base may support a variety of different sized and dimensioned eyes. Eyebrows may be joined slightly above the eyes. However, the cradle and eyes may comprise one unit to attach to the outer surface. Suitable extension fasteners may include, without limitation, sewing string or buttons attached to the bottom of the support base and top of the inner surface. The neoprene substance may help secure the extension fasteners. Cutting a round 5.5″ Styrofoam piece in half to place on both sides of the helmet visor, provides additional extension portions. A fabric may be sewn onto the styrofoam. The styrofoam may be detachable by utilizing buttons and/or clips. A fur skin may at least partially cover the outer surface to provide a furry texture. The fur skin may position in proximity to a bottom rim of the helmet, around the half spheres on the sides of the helmet, around the visor of the helmet, around the eye support cradle/structure of the helmet, and finally equidistant points about 3″ apart around the crown of the helmet to retain positional integrity. The sewing may be replaced with a fastener or buttons to make the fur/color/character temporary; thereby becoming inter-changeable between characters while retaining the same skin base. However, in other embodiments, additional materials and techniques may be utilized to create three dimensional characters.

In one alternative embodiment of the present invention, the at least one extension portion may include illumination (including but not limited to fiber optics, led lights, or combinations there of.). In other alternate embodiments the extensions portions may coated with a directionally reflective paint to reflect back lights from vehicles. In still other alternate embodiment the extension portions may be inflatable such that the user may vary the size of the extension portions. In yet another alternative embodiment, the at least one extension portion may include an audio portion to transmit prerecorded audio signals, whereby the protection device may appear to be speaking. In yet another alternative embodiment, the at least one extension portion may include a protruding arrow that flashes to signal intent to turn. In yet another alternative embodiment, the at least one extension portion may include a protruding brake light. In yet another alternative embodiment, the at least one extension portion may include cushioned members configured to protect against jarring blows to the head. In yet another alternative embodiment, the at least one extension portion may include a detachable weapon and/or ammunition. In yet another alternative embodiment, the at least one extension portion may include food and beverage storage portion, whereby the food and beverage may be accessed by reaching for the protection device positioned on the head.

In yet another alternative embodiment, the cover assembly may join with a protection device configured to protect other areas of the body other than the head. For example, without limitation, the cover assembly may engage and conform to the shape of a football shoulder pad, a shoe, a genital cup, and body armor. In yet another alternative embodiment, the cover portion may include three elastic bands uniformly separated and encircling the protection device, whereby the at least one extension portion may at least partially position between the inner surface of the elastic bands, and the protection device. In yet another alternative embodiment, the commercial assembly may provide a character that advances a commercial endeavor.

Those skilled in the art will readily recognize, in light of and in accordance with the teachings of the present invention, that any of the foregoing steps may be suitably replaced, reordered, removed and additional steps may be inserted depending upon the needs of the particular application. Moreover, the prescribed method steps of the foregoing embodiments may be implemented using any physical and/or hardware system that those skilled in the art will readily know is suitable in light of the foregoing teachings. For any method steps described in the present application that can be carried out on a computing machine, a typical computer system can, when appropriately configured or designed, serve as a computer system in which those aspects of the invention may be embodied. Thus, the present invention is not limited to any particular tangible means of implementation.

All the features disclosed in this specification, including any accompanying abstract and drawings, may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

Having fully described at least one embodiment of the present invention, other equivalent or alternative methods of implementing a cover for a protection device that joins with three dimensional characters and/or objects according to the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Various aspects of the invention have been described above by way of illustration, and the specific embodiments disclosed are not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed. The particular implementation of the cover for a protection device that joins with three dimensional characters and/or objects may vary depending upon the particular context or application. By way of example, and not limitation, the cover for a protection device that joins with three dimensional characters and/or objects described in the foregoing were principally directed to a cover that slips on to a helmet and includes eyes, horns, and other character features with three dimensions implementations; however, similar techniques may instead be applied to military helmets having helmet extensions of weapons and ammunition, which implementations of the present invention are contemplated as within the scope of the present invention. The invention is thus to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the following claims. It is to be further understood that not all of the disclosed embodiments in the foregoing specification will necessarily satisfy or achieve each of the objects, advantages, or improvements described in the foregoing specification.

Claim elements and steps herein may have been numbered and/or lettered solely as an aid in readability and understanding. Any such numbering and lettering in itself is not intended to and should not be taken to indicate the ordering of elements and/or steps in the claims.

The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed.

The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. Section 1.72(b) requiring an abstract that will allow the reader to ascertain the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to limit or interpret the scope or meaning of the claims. The following claims are hereby incorporated into the detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A covering assembly comprising: a cover portion comprising an elastic material having an inner surface and an outer surface, said cover portion being configured to be operable to stretch over at least a portion of a protection device; at least one cover fastener being joined to said inner surface, said cover fastener being configured to be operable to removably join said cover portion to the protection device; and at least one extension fastener being joined to said outer surface, said extension fastener being configured to be operable to removably join at least one extension portion to said outer surface in which said extension portion visibly protrudes from said cover portion.
 2. The assembly as recited in claim 1, in which the protection device comprises a helmet.
 3. The assembly as recited in claim 2, in which said cover fastener is disposable proximate a brow portion of the helmet.
 4. The assembly as recited in claim 3, further comprising a plurality of additional cover fasteners disposable proximate the brow portion of the helmet.
 5. The assembly as recited in claim 4, in which said cover fasteners comprise a hook and loop fastener.
 6. The assembly as recited in claim 3, further comprising a fastener support portion being configured to be operable to secure said cover fastener.
 7. The assembly as recited in claim 6, in which said fastener support portion comprises a claw-shaped clamp.
 8. The assembly as recited in claim 2, further comprising an additional cover fastener being disposable proximate a lower portion of a visor opening of the helmet.
 9. The assembly as recited in claim 2, further comprising a strap portion being configured to be operable to extend from said cover portion to secure a user's chin to the helmet.
 10. The assembly as recited in claim 9, in which said strap portion comprises a mesh guard to provide cushion to the user's chin and mitigate entry of elements into the helmet.
 11. The assembly as recited in claim 2, further comprising at least one support base disposed to join between said inner surface and the helmet, said support base comprising a flexible material and extending a distance above said outer surface.
 12. The assembly as recited in claim 11, said support base further comprising at least one base fastener disposed on a distal end, said base fastener being configured to be operable to join at least one extension portion to said support base in which said flexibility of said support base enables animation of said extension portion.
 13. A covering assembly comprising: means being configured to be operable for stretching over at least a portion of a helmet; means being configured to be operable for removably joining said stretching means to the helmet; and means being configured to be operable for removably joining at least one extension portion to said stretching means in which said extension portion visibly protrudes from said stretching means. The assembly as recited in claim 12, further comprising means being configured to be operable for securing said means for joining said stretching means.
 14. The assembly as recited in claim 12, further comprising additional means for joining said stretching means to the helmet being disposable proximate a lower portion of a visor opening of the helmet.
 15. The assembly as recited in claim 12, further comprising means being configured to be operable for extending from said stretching means to secure a user's chin to the helmet.
 16. The assembly as recited in claim 12, further comprising means for extending a distance above said stretching means and for joining to at least one extension portion in which a flexibility of said extending and joining means enables animation of said extension portion.
 17. A covering assembly comprising: a cover portion comprising an elastic material having an inner surface and an outer surface, said cover portion being configured to be operable to stretch over at least a portion of a helmet; at least one cover fastener being joined to said inner surface and disposable proximate a brow portion of the helmet, said cover fastener comprising a hook and loop fastener, said cover fastener being configured to be operable to removably join said cover portion to the helmet; a fastener support portion being configured to be operable to secure said cover fastener, said fastener support portion comprising a claw-shaped clamp; an additional cover fastener being disposable proximate a lower portion of a visor opening of the helmet; a strap portion being configured to be operable to extend from said cover portion to secure a user's chin to the helmet, said strap portion comprising a mesh guard to provide cushion to the user's chin and mitigate entry of elements into the helmet; and at least one extension fastener being joined to said outer surface, said extension fastener being configured to be operable to removably join at least one extension portion to said outer surface in which said extension portion visibly protrudes from said cover portion.
 18. The assembly as recited in claim 17, further comprising a plurality of additional cover fasteners disposable proximate the brow portion of the helmet.
 19. The assembly as recited in claim 17, further comprising at least one support base disposed to join between said inner surface and the helmet, said support base comprising a flexible material and extending a distance above said outer surface.
 20. The assembly as recited in claim 19, said support base further comprising at least one base fastener disposed on a distal end, said base fastener being configured to be operable to join at least one extension portion to said support base in which said flexibility of said support base enables animation of said extension portion. 